Co-op to slash prices on everyday meats

Eleanor Mackay
· 25 April, 2014

The Co-operative has launched its latest price slashing campaign, ‘Fair and Square’, which has reinforced fears of a supermarket price war.

There are fears that a sustained supermarket price war could force price cuts upon farmers and undermine farmgate prices. A spokesperson for the National Farmers’ Union said: “We will be monitoring the situation and make sure there are no downward pressures on our producers.”

The campaign will see The Co-op cut prices on its everyday meat products, such as bacon and chicken, as well as bread, milk, eggs and bananas. Tesco also reported a price cut for its 210g pack of everyday value unsmoked bacon by 39p, from £1.89 to £1.50.

Steve Murrells, chief executive, retail at The Co-op, said: “The Co-operative Food is changing. We have a clear ambition to be the UK’s best community retailer, delivering delicious food conveniently, and we understand what we need to do to get there.

“Our plans are challenging, yet achievable. By introducing permanent price reductions on hundreds of key product lines, we are further responding to the needs of local people in providing them with a compelling and truly convenient shopping experience.”